The Impact of Judicial Practice on the Legal Framework of Cryptocurrencies and Mining in the Russian Federation and the United Kingdom

Introduction: The swift evolution of digital asset technologies continues to outpace the development of comprehensive regulatory frameworks. In this context of legislative gaps, court rulings play a pivotal role in shaping the legal status of cryptocurrencies and mining, underscoring the relevance of a comparative analysis of their impact across different legal systems.

Methodology and materials: This study employs comparative legal and formal legal methods. Its analytical foundation comprises landmark court precedents from the Russian Federation and the United Kingdom, alongside relevant regulatory acts from both jurisdictions concerning digital assets.

Results of the study and their discussion: The analysis reveals that in Russia, amidst a fragmented legislative landscape, courts are actively formulating legal doctrines by classifying cryptocurrencies as property under the Civil Code and recognizing mining as an entrepreneurial activity. Conversely, in the UK, leveraging its flexible common law system, courts focus primarily on consumer protection and anti-fraud measures, adapting traditional legal concepts such as injunctive relief to new digital realities. The study identifies a fundamental divergence: a restrictive and cautious judicial stance in Russia contrasts with a more adaptive and balanced approach in British jurisprudence

Conclusions: The study concludes that judicial practice in both jurisdictions serves a compensatory role, addressing legislative voids. However, to foster legal certainty and encourage innovation, Russia requires more harmonized and detailed legislation on digital assets. The UK’s experience offers a valuable reference point in this regard, highlighting the need to align regulatory development with both national priorities and international trends.

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